Messmer Honors Evansville Veteran Ken Eppler, Displays Patriotic Artwork at U.S. Capitol

This press release from Representative Mark B. Messmer (R-IN) was published on 2026-07-22 and titled "Messmer Honors Evansville Veteran Ken Eppler, Displays Patriotic Artwork at U.S. Capitol".

Messmer Honors Evansville Veteran Ken Eppler, Displays Patriotic Artwork at U.S. Capitol

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) welcomed Evansville Army veteran and artist Ken Eppler and his family to the U.S. Capitol, where Eppler presented his painting, The Enduring Spirit, for display in the Congressman’s office in honor of America’s 250th Anniversary. “ Indiana’s 8th District is proud to call Ken Eppler one of our own, and I am honored to display his beautiful art piece – which I think reflects the very best of Hoosier and American patriotism, ” said Rep. Mark Messmer. Eppler served with distinction in the United States Army, earning both Airborne and Air Assault qualifications before serving with the 101st Airborne Division during the Gulf War. He later continued his service in the Indiana National Guard before pursuing a passion for patriotic artwork. The Enduring Spirit depicts three colonial children standing beneath an America 250 flag while proudly displaying an original American flag, symbolizing the passing of America's founding ideals from one generation to the next. Eppler hopes his artwork inspires young Americans to appreciate the nation's history and develop a deeper love for their country. To view Rep. Messmer’s floor speech in honor of Ken Eppler and The Enduring Spirit, click here . ###